Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection at Huttoft Primary School on May 5, 2021, following two successive judgments of requires improvement. The inspection aimed to evaluate the progress made by the school since the last section 5 inspection. The findings indicate that school leaders and the governing body are taking effective action to improve the school, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has hindered the implementation of planned improvements, but leaders are committed to addressing the areas identified for enhancement.
The inspection acknowledged that the pandemic has affected the school’s ability to execute its improvement plans fully. Leaders have faced difficulties, including the closure of school bubbles and staff absences due to COVID-19. Nevertheless, they have managed these challenges effectively, ensuring that pupils' learning continues and prioritizing their well-being. The school has made strides in promoting positive behavior and attitudes among pupils, who generally exhibit good behavior and enjoy their learning experiences.
Pupils and staff have expressed positive sentiments regarding improvements in the overall curriculum. Pupils are enthusiastic about their learning and take pride in their work. However, there are instances where pupils struggle to connect their learning to specific subjects. Subject leaders have yet to clearly outline the essential knowledge that pupils need to acquire and the sequence in which it should be taught across different subjects.
Leaders are enhancing their methods for assessing pupils' learning. Staff have received additional training to improve their assessment practices. The governing body has also engaged in efforts to evaluate the quality of the curriculum, particularly in mathematics, where they have identified areas that require further ambition. However, the scope of leaders' evaluations regarding what pupils have learned remains in the early stages for many subjects, and a comprehensive understanding of teaching quality and pupil knowledge is still developing.
Reading is a high priority for the school, with leaders ensuring that it receives significant attention. Some staff have participated in online training related to the school's phonics program, and new reading materials have been acquired. Both staff and pupils show enthusiasm for reading, with books well-matched to pupils' reading abilities. However, there are inconsistencies in phonics instruction among teachers, indicating a need for further quality checks.
The governing body demonstrates an understanding of its role in supporting and challenging the school to improve. Leaders and governors have a clear understanding of the school's achievements and the necessary steps for improvement. The school’s improvement plan is deemed appropriate, outlining responsibilities and timelines for various initiatives.
Since the headteacher's appointment in January 2020, the school has not received specific external support, although leaders appreciate the guidance provided by the local authority. The inspection involved discussions with the headteacher, other leaders, the chair of the governing body, and staff, as well as classroom visits and reviews of documentation related to safeguarding and improvement plans. The findings will be shared with relevant stakeholders, including the chair of the governing body and the regional schools commissioner, and will be published on the Ofsted reports website. Overall, while challenges remain, the school is making progress towards becoming a good school.
